Singing, Dancing with a little swing, and the clapping of hands greeted "The Magic of Motown," which performed for the Keith Albee Performing Arts Center fundraising gala Saturday night at the Thomas Lamb designed theater.

Sen. Bob Plymale, chairman of the event and co-president of the Keith Albee board, told reporters that the $100 per person event hoped to raise about $70,000 for restoration work at the one-of-a-kind operating atmospheric former movie palace.

Designed as a dance party that included on stage seating for large corporate donors, the orchestra pit became a dance floor throughout the night. Early on some of the women wiggled through the golden rails in their gowns and heels to reach the dance area. They did not bother with the entrances on the left and right sides.

Plymale indicated that about $15 million dollars is needed to fully restore the theater. This will be done in stages. Several major projects have already been accomplished such as a new roof, restoration of the sign, remodeling of the fly section of the stage, new restrooms, and a new HVAC system.

On deck, Plymale said that the front portion of the theater will be restored including the marquee to its original 1928 configuration (see last picture in gallery ). a ticket office will be added, and a more catering friendly space. On the list, too, are upgrading the dressing rooms and the seating.

Plymale said that the board will seek national landmark designation. Currently, the Keith is a part of the Fourth Avenue Historic District, but has no individual designation.

Considered the 'jewel' of the City, the two million dollar 'temple' of amusement brings the promise of greater downtown economic development due to the multiplier impact of performing arts events spinning dollars into restaurants, retailers, parking and motels.